In 2019, Canada experienced a third consecutive record-breaking year for tourism. An estimated 15 million Americans visited their neighbor to the north that year!

And while recent events have affected tourism across the board, Canada remains a popular tourist destination for Americans. This is true largely because visiting Canada from the U.S. is still a convenient and fun getaway for all kinds of travelers.

If you’re considering making the trip, keep these tips for traveling to Canada from the U.S. in mind. From COVID-testing to documentation and travel insurance, we’re covering all the major things you should know before getting your passport out.

Top Tips for Traveling to Canada from the U.S.

if you’re planning a trip to Canada (or anywhere) a lot can still change due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All of the travel tips for Canada are accurate at the time of publication.

1. Carry the Right Documentation

One of the most important things to know before going to Canada -- no matter the global circumstances -- is proper documentation. All visitors to Canada, including Americans, must carry proof of citizenship and proof of identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card meets these requirements. Children under 16 need only to present proof of U.S. citizenship. 

If you’re a U.S. citizen planning a trip to Canada that’s less than 180 days, you don’t need a visa! 

Important Note: If you have a criminal record (including misdemeanors or alcohol-related driving offenses), you may not be allowed to enter Canada without first receiving an “approval for rehabilitation” before you travel.

2. COVID-19 Testing Requirements

COVID-19 travel restrictions are always changing. For a while, only fully vaccinated foreign nationals were allowed to enter Canada for tourism travel. Additionally, travellers entering Canada by land, air, or water, regardless of citizenship, had to follow testing and quarantine requirements. This included showing a negative COVID-19 test result pre-entry to help keep everyone safe.

Some individuals, like fully vaccinated travellers and essential workers, were exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirements. Learn the latest on who can come to Canada from the country’s official website.

Recent Update: Starting April 1, 2022, pre-entry tests will no longer be required for fully vaccinated travellers entering Canada by land, air, or water.

3. Invest in Travel Insurance

One of the most important tips for traveling to Canada from the U.S. is to get travel insurance. Canada is known for having an amazing universal healthcare system in place for citizens. However, tourists are not covered by it.

If you’re visiting Canada from the U.S., it’s essential to find the right travel insurance for your trip! This will help you cover any unexpected medical expenses that could happen. With BestQuote, we make finding travel insurance in Canada easy by comparing leading Canadian travel insurance providers for you.
We hope you found these tips for visiting Canada helpful. Get a free quote on visitors to Canada insurance!